Hapoel Be'er Sheva Draws Tough Group in UEFA Europa League, Faces Historic Challenge

Hapoel Be'er Sheva has been drawn into one of the toughest groups in the UEFA Europa League, according to the FM Data algorithm, which ranks their group as the third most difficult in the competition. The algorithm rates Be'er Sheva's draw as 39% harder than average, surpassed only by Besiktas (64%) and OFI Crete (44%). Notably, the algorithm does not factor in that Be'er Sheva will host their home matches outside Israel, in Bucharest, Romania, which further increases the challenge.

The algorithm predicts Be'er Sheva will finish the group stage with 7 points. To advance to the next phase (positions 9-24), the team will need at least 10 points, while qualifying directly from the top eight requires 13 points. Their chances of progressing are estimated at 28.1%, with a projected final group ranking of 34th in a tight competition.

This marks the third consecutive season an Israeli team competes in the Europa League under the new format. Previously, Maccabi Tel Aviv participated, earning 1 point in 2025/26 and 6 points in 2024/25, finishing last and 29th respectively. Be'er Sheva's group opponents include Juventus (home), AZ Alkmaar (away), Dinamo Zagreb (home), Saint-Étienne (away), Celta Vigo (home), Bournemouth (away), OFI Crete (home), and Besiktas (away, possibly at a neutral venue). The team will play all home games in Bucharest due to venue restrictions in Israel.